How to Buy Rosin for a String Instrument

Rosin is an important substance for all string instrument musicians. Rosin increases the friction between the hair of the bow and the string of the instrument which causes the instrument to create a note. Not having enough rosin or not having the right kind of rosin can directly affect the sound of the instrument. Since each rosin is slightly different, getting the rosin that will be best for your instrument is a necessity.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the amount you want to spend on rosin. The quality of a rosin directly affects the price. Student grade rosins are fine for beginning players because they are cheaper and create a grittier sound and more dust. Professional grade rosin is more expensive but creates a better sound and less dust.

2. Decide between a light or dark rosin. Dark rosins are usually less dense and more sticky. Because of these properties this rosin isn't good to use in hot or humid areas. Light rosin is a lot harder than the dark rosin. Light rosin is usually preferred for the higher stringed instruments.

3. Think about additives in the rosin. Many companies add ingredients like metals to their rosin to change how the rosin affects the bow. Gold, silver, copper, or lead can be added to the rosin to change the properties. Gold added to rosin makes a bright, clear tone and can often soften the harsh sounds produced by an instrument. Silver and lead create a concentrated, bright tone and helps with clarity and warmth of the tone. Both of these materials are usually recommended for violin and viola. Lead is the most common material added to rosin and is recommended for beginning players because it creates a velvety tone.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use the rosin made specifically for your instrument. The densities and properties of rosins change slightly for each instrument and can ruin a bow if used incorrectly. Bass rosin, for example, is less dense than violin rosin and can ruin a bow for any other instrument.